January 27, 2017
Shabbat Shalom
International Holocaust
Remembrance Day
"I Say A Little Prayer" Bacharach 
The world is flat.  Communication is instantaneous. Could the Holocaust have happened in the era of Twitter and social media. Even with today's 24/7 global images of horror, many are still apathetic to injustice.  We can't go back in time or change the past. But we must teach it and work hard to NEVER allow it to repeat. January 27th was chosen by the United Nations as International Holocaust Memorial Day because it was the day in 1945 when the Soviet troops liberated the largest Nazi death camp in Poland,  Auschwitz-Birkenau. We must never forget the Nazi deaths of...

6 million Jews (1.5 million children)
8 million Soviets and Soviet prisoners
1.8 million Polish citizen (who weren't Jewish)
312,000 Serb Civilian
250,000 Disabled People
200,000 Roma Gypsies
2,000 Jehovah's Witnesses
70,000 Criminals and/or Asocials
Thousands of Homosexuals
Countless unknown others



"Wishin' and Hopin"  Bacharach 
When George W. Bush became president, I was disappointed though knew that surviving his term would be uncomfortable but bearable.  This time, I seem to be experiencing a more deep ulcer-producing venom in my stomach that keeps churning each new day of Trump's presidency.  I don't think I'm alone but we all need to BREATH and keep vigilant. "The Power of the People is always greater than the People in Power" - Cory Booker.   From the beginning, Trump's inaugural speech and theme of America First has been compared to isolationist rhetoric heard during WWII by Charles Lindbergh , a known friend of Hitler's. During Trump's campaign, the Anti-Defamation League asked him to stop using that slogan as it was referenced against the American Jews who were "pushing" the US to join WWII. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/trump-inaugural-address-america-first_us_588248c1e4b096b4a2315af0?   
Words should be carefully chosen, as speeches are taken by extreme elements (like White Supremacist) and used as fuel for their warped causes. Not surprising, David Duke tweeted his approval of Trump's speech.  During the the pre-WWII era, lies about Jews and others permeated the rhetoric that perpetuated the discrimination and ultimate death of millions.
Accuracy and the Truth are essential elements to maintaining a healthy democracy and a strong level of trust.  As an optimist, I want Trump to improve our country but it's more likely, by his actions and words, that he's unable to bypass his impulses and insecurities.  The facts are irrefutable about the inauguration attendance and the myth of voter fraud, but he can't resist feuding with the media with "alternate facts"* aka falsehoods.  It's been said that Trumps thinks his best mode of operation is adversarial. Seems he does best when fighting someone.  The presidency can either Make a Man or Break a Man.  Trump's legacy is far from determined but his first week's actions are heading down a negative path. 

"Promises, Promises"  Bacharach
673 Marches (nearly 5 million people) were held all over the world on Saturday.  This was the largest organized protest of an newly elected president, EVER.  Pink hats were seen in all major Cities of every State and as far and obscure as Guam, Antarctic, Iceland, Iraq, Israel and Kosovo. Not surprising, Russia was missing from the long list of countries. This Women's March is a clear sign that Trump's agenda is very concerning to so many people. Protecting basic Human Rights was the theme of the Rally.  Women's health choices, minority rights, immigrant rights, workers rights and environmental protections could be at risk during a Trump presidency.  Just this week he signed orders against the Affordable Care Act and Global Women's Health initiatives ( Global Gag Rule). 
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/donald-trump-abortion-men_us_5886369be4b0e3a7356a7910?  He also revived the (environmentally concerning) Keystone and Dakota Pipelines, froze all EPA grants and contracts (which could affect Flint's support) and took Climate Change off the EPA website. His campaign promises are his current focus as he pledges to build the Mexican Wall and prevent the entrance of refugees from certain Muslim countries.   After Saturday's show of support, the most important element is strong follow-up. As Cory Booker stated, "This must not be a Moment BUT a Movement" . The key is to take the proven tactics of the well organized Tea Party and voice our opinions at our local town halls ( ** local Town Hall info) and the 2018 voting booth.  We need to take back our local and US House and Senate and most importantly we need a Dem in our Governor and Secretary of State seats so we can control the 2020 redistricting and protect voters rights. Otherwise, the odds will continue to be stacked against us.

"Raindrops Keep Falling..."  Bacharach
It's only been one week and our efforts are needed more than ever.   First order of business, contact your Senators to prevent a few of the more egregious cabinet nominees.
Sen. Jeff Sessions (Attorney General)
Rep. Tom Price (Health & Human Services) 
Betsy DeVos (Education) 
Scott Pruitt (EPA)
And watch out for a very conservative Supreme Court nominee.  This must be fought tooth and nail.
To reach your senators. 


"What's New Pussycat" Bacharach
Then give your 2 cents to your Congressman/woman on why Anti-Choice Bill HR-7  should be defeated.  This bill is designed to prevent insurance companies (public, private, ALL) from covering abortions, which means all abortions must be paid "out of pocket" ($1500)
Even if you have the cash, good luck finding a safe clinic near you. Individual States have passed more than 600 laws restricting abortion clinics with frivolous rules causing 81% of all clinics to shutter their doors since 1991. West Virginia is now the 6th state with only 1 clinic.  They joined Mississippi, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming. Also, 5 Conservative CongressMEN just submitted a bill which will determine that  "Life is at fertilization ".  This would essentially make abortions illegal.  https://www.romper.com/p/will-the-life-at-fertilization-bill-hr-586-pass-its-widely-opposed-on-capitol-hill-32729    In a perfect world, insurance should cover all birth control and abortions, not make it harder to obtain them. If the goal is to prevent unwanted pregnancies, then we need to do a better job teaching and providing family planning.  Gaging Planned Parenthood WILL only increase the deaths from back alley hackett jobs.  https://www.bustle.com/p/what-is-hr-7-the-anti-abortion-bill-would-be-particularly-bad-for-millennials-32667  In the words of one of the posters from Saturday's Rally:  "I can't believe I still have to protest this Sh*t"
To reach your congressman/woman:


"Any Day Now" Bacharach
Two days after Bibi and Donald's phone chat this week, Israel announced the construction plan for 2,500 homes in the West Bank.  The new US/Israel dynamic is still being formulated but Trump's presidency (with his plan to relocate the embassy to Jerusalem) is starting out as a major thorn in the Palestinians side. Though it seems the past's "evenhanded" (some would argue this view) approach to each side hasn't produced Diddly-Squat in Peace terms.  We'll see how Israel as the favorite child will work at the negotiation table.  Just praying this doesn't encourage revenge attacks on Israelis but if the past is our guide, their attacks are often random and unprovoked anyway.  The Settlements are not the obstacle to Peace.  90% of all the territory Israel acquired from self-defense wars were returned for Peace. No other Nation has ever done that.  We only keep land intrinsic to our security but would instantaneously return it for the reality of peace. 


When we try to make Peace, all we get is this...

"One Less Bell to Answer" Bacharach
Before there was the brave feminist Mary Richards, there was the lovable Laura Petrie.  Both live on in syndication, but this week, their alter-ego,  Mary Tyler Moore passed away at the age of 80.  She and her 2nd husband, Grant Tinker founded the Mary Tyler Moore production company which brought to life iconic shows like Rhoda, Bob Newhart, St. Elsewhere and Hill Street Blues.  Lifelong diabetes had compromised her health as her last several years were quite difficult.  May she rest in peace and continue to bring joy to all those who watch her legacy on Hulu. 
MTM 1936-2017
"Walk On By" Bacharach 
Bravo to this British employee for fighting the system after she was sent home for refusing to follow office rules to wear High Heels (at least 2 inches) to work, a policy that also included the requirement to wear makeup and restricted greasy or gelled hair.  It was only last year that British Airways finally allowed their female flight attendants to wear slacks rather than dresses or skirts. "We've come a long way baby", but we've still got more equality roads to travel.


"Easy Target" John Mellencamp
Among the many frustrated Americans are some very creative people. The multi-talented  John Mellencamp released his new song, "Easy Target" on the eve of the inauguration.  It's a grim but poignant song about our current political reality with a melancholy tune.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SrxcwL5nDPM

"Shower the People" James Taylor 
We must remember to shower the people we love with love as Matt Robinson, from Howard University, did for his mother. He was singing in DC last month when he met James Taylor who recorded a greeting to Matt's mom.  Hope you enjoy the talents of Matt and his family with his beautiful rendition of James' love song.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sh8BQEzDGes&feature=youtu.be

Wishing you and your families a 
Sweet and Peaceful Shabbat Shalom,
Lisa
lisashabbatshalom.com

Camp Sea-Gull 2017 Reunion.
First meeting, this Wednesday Feb. 1st @ 7:30pm 
If you'd like to help, please email me for meeting details.

* Hope you enjoy this  Alternative Facts/Jellicle Cats parody, created by Randy Rainbow and  featuring   Kellyann  Conway.  I found it quite entertaining. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdV_8TGswRA

Condolences to friends, Dave and Allison Schwartz and their family on the passing of Dave's mum, Judy Schwartz z"l (age 75).  The funeral and shiva were in the UK however they will hold a service this Sunday (1/29) evening at 7pm at their West Bloomfield home at 5473 White Hall Circle 48323. May Judy's memory and love bring comfort to those who mourn her passing and may she be a blessing unto her family and community. 

Condolences to Ken Korotkin  and his family on the passing of his beloved mother,  Florine Siegel Korotkin z"l. May her spirit and love bring comfort to those who mourn her passing and may she be a blessing unto all who knew and loved her. 

Condolences to longtime friend, Sarah Rabin and her family on the passing of her mother, Beatrice Rabin z"l (age 94). Beatrice led a long and active life with her husband Professor Albert Rabin z"l and was a devoted mother and grandmother. May Bea's memory and spirit bring comfort to those she touched as she was truly a blessing to her loved ones.

Condolences to Doron Herman of Tel Aviv on the passing of his father, Floryn Herman z"l.  May his spirit and memories comfort those who mourn his passing and may he be a blessing unto his family and community.
Happy Birthday

Jan. 27th
Diane Kaplan Orley
Dana Loewenstein
Jeff Schlussel
Max Klar
Owen Perlman
Eli Newman
Beverly Schwartz Dovitz

Jan. 28th
Ruth Kaplan

Jan. 29th
Gail Elkus

Jan. 30th
Danielle Winterberger Russell
Deborah Orley Rubyan 
Hattie Groskind 
Ken Gold 
 
Jan. 31st
Shari Rogers
Mike Jacobson (Happy 50th)
 
Feb. 1st
Lauren Dworkin Katz
Bobbie Blitz
 
Feb. 2nd
Alan Leifer 

I am prone to mistakes so if I missed your birthday or got the wrong date, please let me know.
 


**
January 30 
(Monday) 
Save Obamacare Day of Action
Office of Congressman Dave Trott
624 East Big Beaver Rd. Suite 204
Troy, MI 48083
12:00pm - 1:00pm

February 1 (Wednesday)
U Matter, Mental Health Through My Eyes
Speaker: Kevin Briggs, Guardian of the Golden Gate
The Shul
6890 West Maple Rd.
7:00pm-8:30pm

February 4  (Saturday)
Nosh Gen: Bowling in the Motor City
Jewish Historical Society of Michigan & Michigan Jewish Sports Foundation
Food, Fun and A Dash of History
Century Bowl - Waterford
6:30 p.m. - Dinner and a brief presentation of Bowling History in the Motor City
8:15 p.m. - Bowling

February 5 - 9
The Jewish Federations of North America
Heart to Heart
Women's Journey to Israel

February 11 (Saturday)
Cabaret 313
Marin Mazzie and Jason Danieley
My Funny  Valentine
Riviera Court @ Detroit Institute of Art
7:00pm and 9:30pm performances

March 18 (Saturday)
Detroit Zoo
Wildlife Conservation Gala (inaugural)
7:00-11:00pm
This new gala will spotlight the Detroit Zoo's world-renowned wildlife conservation efforts and the impact we have around the world.

March 25 (Saturday)
Cabaret 313
Gabrielle Stravelli
Black Box Theatre @ Detroit Opera House
7:00pm and 9:30pm performance

March 29 (Wednesday)
JVS  Trade Secrets 
Fundraiser for Women to Work Program
Troy Marriott
6:00pm
Keynote Speaker: Connie Holzer
For more info, please contact Andrea Stone
248-233-4210 or astone@jvsdet.org

May 3 (Wednesday)
Congregation Shaarey Zedek
Lois Linden Woman's World Luncheon
Celebrating 50 years of Woman's World
Woman of Valor honor: Sally Orley (well deserving)
Guest Speaker: Lesley Stahl (of 60 Minutes)
Save the date, more details to come.

May 10  (Wednesday)
Planned Parenthood of Michigan event
The Cube at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra 
6:00pm
Guest Speaker: Dr. Willie Parker
More details to come.

May 11 (Thursday)
City Year Red Jacket Gala
Cobo Center, Grand Riverview Ballroom
1 Washington Blvd.  Detroit
2017 Idealist in Action Award:
Matthew Simoncini 
President and CEO of Lear Corporation

May 20 (Saturday)
Cabaret 313
Chuck Cooper and the Clan
Marlene Boll Theatre at the Boll Family YMCA
1401 Broadway St., Detroit
7:00pm and 9:30pm performances

May 21 (Sunday)
Kadima Youth Mental Health Conference
Birmingham Covington School
Morning Session for parents, caregivers, community
Afternoon Session for educators and mental health professionals

June 4 (Sunday)
Hillel Day School
Annual Dream Maker Gala
Honoring: 
David and Nadine Farbman
Steven and Janice Traison
And Alum awards to:
Edward Alterman (class of 86)
Rabbi Jennifer Kaluzny (class of 91)
Jonathan Ozeran (class of 97)
Stay tuned for more details.

June 16 (Friday)
Detroit Zoo
Sunset at the Zoo
This year's theme is Green is the new Black and will highlight the remarkable environmental and sustainability efforts of the zoo.  https://detroitzoo.org/events/zoo-events/sunset-at-the-zoo/

Parting Thoughts...